In Mexico, Thrips parvispinus was found for the first time during inspections in a bell pepper (Capsicum annum) field in November 2024 near Navolato, Sinaloa state. 29 female and five male specimens were recovered from a one-hectare field. Payán-Arzapalo et al. (2025) believe that T. parvispinus was most likely introduced through infested material from the USA.
In the most recent EPPO (European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization) publication, the status is described as 'Present, not widely distribute'
Thrips parvispinus is an invasive insect that can cause significant damage to various plants and agricultural crops. Native to Southeast Asia, Thrips parvispinus has spread across different continents, including North America. It is suspected that Thrips parvispinus arrived in the United States in Hawaii in the early 2000s.
Thrips parvispinus continues to be a major challenge for pepper producers in the province of Almeria, Spain. "Originating in Southeast Asia, this species was first detected in Spain in 2020, in ornamental plants. Currently, it represents a danger due to the serious damage it causes," Asaja Almeria explained earlier this year. "The damage that it causes the fruits is mainly aesthetic, affecting their appearance and reducing their commercial value. However, it does not compromise their quality or food safety. Despite that, the economic consequences are significant, as consumers often reject products with visible imperfections."
Several suppliers are already developing and fine-tuning new protocols for these pests, including biocontrol products and meshes.
